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Preparing for the Interview

11 Simple Steps to Prepare for your Killer Interview

It’s a fact – a good interview wins you the job. Over 90% of hires are based solely upon the interview, according to a Harvard Business Review study. And if that didn’t convince you of the importance of impeccable interview preparedness, 63% of hiring decisions are made within the first 4.3 minutes of an interview (courtesy SHRM).

So lets dive into what it takes to prepare for that killer interview.

Be on time.
In fact, be early. Give yourself enough time to go in relaxed and ready to project a confident demeanor.

Bring extra resumes with you.
Count on meeting more than one person.

Do your research.
Be prepared. Make it clear that you know the company’s history, solutions, verticals, main competitors, value proposition and their industry edge.

Know your audience.
Investigate their background, professional work history, common interests and their connections.

Listen!
Do not over speak. Give the interviewers every opportunity to describe the position, company history, culture, hiring profile and why they joined the company.

Stay on point with your responses.
Don’t find yourself straying off the topic or question.

Do not dwell on the negative.
If asked about recent quick job changes, give brief answers and a positive spin as to why.

Do not exaggerate!
A skilled interviewer will know when you do. They will know when a stated performance level on your resume does not tie in with your quota attainment and W-2 history.

Talk about the numbers.
Use your resume as a guide for talking points when presenting your performance history. Do not be shy. You earned those figures! Present your quotas and attainment, company ranking and achievements with pride.

Be clear about the value you bring to the organization and how strong of a fit you are for the position.

Mention your C-level connections within the industry, territory and major contract wins including contract value. Speak to how your contributions to the team will help the hiring manager achieve their goals.

Close. Close. Close.
During an initial interview, close on proceeding to the next step in their process. If it is a final interview, close on an offer. Regardless of whatever stage you are in their hiring process, gain commitment from them to advance you to the next step in their process.